Can a 5th Wheel Trailer be Towed by a 2001 Ford F-150 Crew Cab with 5-1/2 Foot Bed  

Question:

Expert Reply:

With a short bed truck with a crew cab like the 2007 Ford F-150, you would have to use a stationary 5th wheel trailer hitch and a sidewinder. Depending on the width of your trailer, you may not be able to make 90 degree turns safely even with a sidewinder. But there is a way to measure before hand to determine if you will have clearance.

On the 2007 Ford F-150, the king pin center will be 1-1/2 inches forward of the center of the axle. So measure from that point to the back of the truck cab (measurement A). Next, add the length of the sidewinder, 22 inches (measurement B). Then, measure the width of the trailer and divide by 2 to get half (measurement C). Take the result of A + B and subtract measurement C. So it would be (A +B) - C = clearance. Clearance will need to be 4 inch or greater to safely make 90 degree turns.

If you determine that a sidewinder will give you the clearance you need, you can look to see if there is one available for your trailer pin box. Look at the pin box manufacturer and model number to determine if there is one that will fit by using the conversion matrix linked below. While I am confident in the performance of the sidewinder, if you are looking for the smoothest ride possible while still taking advantage of the sidewinder, I recommend using a 5th Airborne with Sidewinder Premium Fifth Wheel Air-Ride Coupler like # ST400-5AS16K that you have referenced. The 5th Airborne reduces chucking by up to 60 percent and vertical shock by up to 44 percent making for a smooth, stable ride.

Next, you will need a 5th wheel trailer hitch. We have several available for the 2007 Ford F-150. I have included a link to the available options below. Unless you decided to go with the Elite Series hitch, # RP30921 (which uses a different installation kit, # RP30064), you will be using Reese Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches, # RP50081-58. I have included a link to the installation details and a video showing a typical installation below.

expert reply by: Michael H

0